5 potential opponents for Derrick Lewis after UFC 271 setback

#2. Derrick Lewis vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik

Rozenstruik is ranked No.7 with a record of 12-3

Derrick Lewis and Jarzinho Rozenstruik are two of the most devastating knockout artists in the UFC. They must fight at some point, and should Rozenstruik get by Tybura next time out, that time may be upon us. Even in the event of a 'Bigi Boy' loss, this battle may still make sense.

Rozenstruik appeared to be set for great things in the UFC when he knocked out Alistair Overeem to take his record to 10-0. However, he has had trouble breaking into the true elite of the division, going 2-3 since. Lewis, on his part, has also failed short of becoming the king of the division a couple of times.

These fighters are incredibly similar and appear to be at a comparable point in each of their careers. Rozenstruik is likely the more technical of the pair, given his kickboxing background, and seeing his massive strikes go up against the knockout king would be a truly must-see bout.

---

#1. Derrick Lewis vs. Alexander Volkov II

Volkov is ranked No.6 with a record of 34-9

The first fight between Derrick Lewis and Alexander Volkov was one of the more unique bouts in UFC history. Volkov appeared to be dominating and visibly hurt Lewis on multiple occasions. However, Volkov was stunned by a vicious KO from 'The Black Beast' in the closing moments.

Volkov has looked impressive since this bout, going 4-2. In fact, he may very well have been ranked higher in recent years were it not for the loss to Lewis. It, therefore, feels important for the Russian's career to avenge this loss if he is going to move on and fight the true elite of the division.

Lewis may also be interested, given that he has been able to knock Volkov out in the past. Furthermore, given Lewis's ranking remains so high, a rematch between the pair will be a viable option regardless of what happens in the Russian's upcoming bout with Tom Aspinall.